Hi there,
By now, I'm sure you've heard that WCRB will be sold to WGBH sometime in the next 60 to 90 days. I've heard from many of you asking what that means for WCRB.
The good news is: WCRB will remain a classical station! What a relief! As you know, whenever there are ownership changes at radio, there are questions about what the new owners intend to do.
WGBH will also transform WCRB to a non-commercial station when the sale goes through.
Here's to many, many more years of classical music on the air in Boston!
My best to you today,
Mark
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Time away from Boston
Good morning!
It's a beautiful late summer's day here in Boston.....let's enjoy these days while we still can!
As I return from the Labor Day weekend in Georgia, and contemplate heading to the midwest for a few days with family, I'm reminded how fortunate we are to have WCRB on the air in New England. There really aren't many full-time classical stations in many regions. Some will play classical music at odd hours....but if you are visiting and unfamiliar with the schedules, you are often left with choices such as talk radio, really loud music, or no radio at all.
It's a beautiful late summer's day here in Boston.....let's enjoy these days while we still can!
As I return from the Labor Day weekend in Georgia, and contemplate heading to the midwest for a few days with family, I'm reminded how fortunate we are to have WCRB on the air in New England. There really aren't many full-time classical stations in many regions. Some will play classical music at odd hours....but if you are visiting and unfamiliar with the schedules, you are often left with choices such as talk radio, really loud music, or no radio at all.
So, I wanted to just take a minute this morning and thank you for making this happen. It's your support that keeps WCRB on the air.....and it's a privelege to be part of this great radio station.
Enjoy the day.....and the music!
Mark
Mark
Monday, August 24, 2009
This weekend and next on WCRB
Hi there,
I hope you're doing well, and surviving the heat! I experimented with leaving my windows open on Saturday night. The old saying, "It's not the heat....it's the humidity!" proved to be true! I woke up early on Sunday, and promptly shut the windows, and turned on the A.C! Mind you, I'm not complaining here.....I will enjoy this summer weather for as long as we have it here in New England!
We're making plans for a couple of enjoyable weekends on WCRB. Starting this Friday afternoon, we'll be featuring the greatest pianists ever by playing some of the most beloved works from the classical piano repertoire. We hope you can make us part of your plans for this special weekend of music....which will begin at 4 on Friday afternoon.
The following week, we'll be anticipating the Labor Day weekend by playing the top 500 classical pieces of all-time. That's quite an undertaking! And, we're asking for your help in putting this list together. Please visit our website, (www.wcrb.com) and click on the Labor Day 500 on the front page. From there, we'll ask you to let us know about your favorite piece. Visit and vote as often as you like....it's a long way to 500 pieces. We will play the 500 pieces as complete works....beginning sometime next week. Once we've tabulated the top 500 pieces, I'll actually schedule the music in reverse....so that #1 plays Labor Day night around 9. Keep checking back to this blog, and to our facebook page. I'll let you know when the Labor Day 500 will begin....just as soon as I've put it all together! :)
Thanks for listening to WCRB, and as always, thanks for your support of Boston's Classical Station!
My best,
Mark
I hope you're doing well, and surviving the heat! I experimented with leaving my windows open on Saturday night. The old saying, "It's not the heat....it's the humidity!" proved to be true! I woke up early on Sunday, and promptly shut the windows, and turned on the A.C! Mind you, I'm not complaining here.....I will enjoy this summer weather for as long as we have it here in New England!
We're making plans for a couple of enjoyable weekends on WCRB. Starting this Friday afternoon, we'll be featuring the greatest pianists ever by playing some of the most beloved works from the classical piano repertoire. We hope you can make us part of your plans for this special weekend of music....which will begin at 4 on Friday afternoon.
The following week, we'll be anticipating the Labor Day weekend by playing the top 500 classical pieces of all-time. That's quite an undertaking! And, we're asking for your help in putting this list together. Please visit our website, (www.wcrb.com) and click on the Labor Day 500 on the front page. From there, we'll ask you to let us know about your favorite piece. Visit and vote as often as you like....it's a long way to 500 pieces. We will play the 500 pieces as complete works....beginning sometime next week. Once we've tabulated the top 500 pieces, I'll actually schedule the music in reverse....so that #1 plays Labor Day night around 9. Keep checking back to this blog, and to our facebook page. I'll let you know when the Labor Day 500 will begin....just as soon as I've put it all together! :)
Thanks for listening to WCRB, and as always, thanks for your support of Boston's Classical Station!
My best,
Mark
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Last night's Hatch Shell concert
Good morning!
I'm still in for Laura while she and her family finish their great Alaskan adventure! Laura will be back on Monday morning at 5, and I'll get back to my routine, playing classical music from 2-7. While I have enjoyed doing the early morning show, we are creatures of habit....and I look forward to a return to "normal"....or at least as "normal" as my life gets! :)
Last night's concert at the Hatch Shell marked the return of the Landmarks Orchestra to the Landmarks Festival at the Shell. We celebrated "opera highlights" with 4 soloists from the Boston Lyric Opera. What a night! Charles Ansbacher and the orchestra gave brilliant performances, and the soloists were exceptional!
The night began quite literally with a bang....one of those accidents on Storrow Drive got our attention. But, our frayed nerves were soon calmed by the beautiful sounds coming from the historic Hatch Shell. One of the highlights came for me when the first half of the evening ended with a beautiful rendition of "La Dona e mobile"....I wanted to sing along, but not knowing Italian very well, settled for a little humming instead!
These Wednesday night concerts are a highlight of the summer for many of us! In spite of drizzle and mist, about 4,000 of us really enjoyed the experience. I hope you'll be with us for next Wednesday night's concert.
If you were there last night, I'd love to know what you think! Feel free to respond to my blog here, or on our facebook page!
Here's to a great rest of the week,
Mark
I'm still in for Laura while she and her family finish their great Alaskan adventure! Laura will be back on Monday morning at 5, and I'll get back to my routine, playing classical music from 2-7. While I have enjoyed doing the early morning show, we are creatures of habit....and I look forward to a return to "normal"....or at least as "normal" as my life gets! :)
Last night's concert at the Hatch Shell marked the return of the Landmarks Orchestra to the Landmarks Festival at the Shell. We celebrated "opera highlights" with 4 soloists from the Boston Lyric Opera. What a night! Charles Ansbacher and the orchestra gave brilliant performances, and the soloists were exceptional!
The night began quite literally with a bang....one of those accidents on Storrow Drive got our attention. But, our frayed nerves were soon calmed by the beautiful sounds coming from the historic Hatch Shell. One of the highlights came for me when the first half of the evening ended with a beautiful rendition of "La Dona e mobile"....I wanted to sing along, but not knowing Italian very well, settled for a little humming instead!
These Wednesday night concerts are a highlight of the summer for many of us! In spite of drizzle and mist, about 4,000 of us really enjoyed the experience. I hope you'll be with us for next Wednesday night's concert.
If you were there last night, I'd love to know what you think! Feel free to respond to my blog here, or on our facebook page!
Here's to a great rest of the week,
Mark
Monday, August 10, 2009
In for Laura Carlo this week...
Good morning!
Laura is cruising the Alaskan coastline this week with her husband, son and several WCRB listeners. So, I'm sitting in for her, rising very early to spend time with you from 5 to 9. All of my friends ask me, "how can you function that early in the morning?!?" It's a good question. But, there really is something to driving in to the station before anyone else is on the road...(the commute is a breeze!). And, there's something to collecting your thoughts before anyone arrives here at work...then getting the opportunity to start the day with some of the most amazing music ever created. It really does set the pace, and help me to put things in perspective. As you head into work this week, or begin your day doing whatever you do, I hope that our classical music will do the very same for you.
Starting tomorrow, WCRB's going to begin playing what we're calling "WCRB's classic from the archives"...at different times every day. As you probably know, WCRB has been around for a very long time...over 60 years. And, we have lots of music in the archives. We thought it would be good to share this music with you over time. As I preview some of the material we'll be featuring from performers no longer with us, in many cases, I'm struck by the timelessness of classical music. It was every bit as powerful then as today. And, the performers from 40 or 50 years ago played with passion and virtuosity. I hope you'll rediscover the beauty of these recordings with us over time.
All for now....have to head on the air. Here's to a good week for all of us!
Mark
Laura is cruising the Alaskan coastline this week with her husband, son and several WCRB listeners. So, I'm sitting in for her, rising very early to spend time with you from 5 to 9. All of my friends ask me, "how can you function that early in the morning?!?" It's a good question. But, there really is something to driving in to the station before anyone else is on the road...(the commute is a breeze!). And, there's something to collecting your thoughts before anyone arrives here at work...then getting the opportunity to start the day with some of the most amazing music ever created. It really does set the pace, and help me to put things in perspective. As you head into work this week, or begin your day doing whatever you do, I hope that our classical music will do the very same for you.
Starting tomorrow, WCRB's going to begin playing what we're calling "WCRB's classic from the archives"...at different times every day. As you probably know, WCRB has been around for a very long time...over 60 years. And, we have lots of music in the archives. We thought it would be good to share this music with you over time. As I preview some of the material we'll be featuring from performers no longer with us, in many cases, I'm struck by the timelessness of classical music. It was every bit as powerful then as today. And, the performers from 40 or 50 years ago played with passion and virtuosity. I hope you'll rediscover the beauty of these recordings with us over time.
All for now....have to head on the air. Here's to a good week for all of us!
Mark
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Last night's concert
Hi there,
Last night, the Landmarks Festival at the Shell was moved from the Hatch Shell to Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory because of the weather. Thanks to all of you who made the transition to join us at this location...Jordan Hall was filled to capacity.
From a completely selfish standpoint, I have to say that I was thrilled with the result! The acoustics in Jordan Hall are second to none....and we were able to hear every single note, every single nuance to the music...it was quite a treat.
The Youth Orchestra of the Americas, 75 young musicians from the western hemisphere...was just sensational. It was exciting to see young people in an orchestra....swinging, swaying, feeling the passion of the music. It really brought Dvorak's New World Symphony to life for me. The double bass players were a sight to behold!
Gabriela Montero, the pianist for Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto #2 was just amazing. She felt and expressed every imaginable nuance....one could think....just as intended by Rachmaninov himself. She then treated us to her musical talent in an encore....she asked the audience to name a couple of songs everyone knew, and she would improvise on them for us. So, we heard a brilliant classical approach to The Sound of Music...and to Take Me Out To The Ball Game! What fun!
I cannot think of a better teacher for these young musicians than Benjamin Zander. I believe his passion for music is contagious. He is one of those fine conductors that not only expresses himself so that the musicians know what he wants....when he conducts, he actually helps the audience to understand what's happening on the stage. It's a true gift.
OK. I realize I sound like I'm gushing a bit....I just wanted to share some of my impressions of the night with you....in hopes that perhaps you will come and join us for our next free concert....the Landmarks Orchestra at the Shell continues with another free concert next Wednesday night at 7 at the Hatch Shell...we hope to see you there!
Mark
Last night, the Landmarks Festival at the Shell was moved from the Hatch Shell to Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory because of the weather. Thanks to all of you who made the transition to join us at this location...Jordan Hall was filled to capacity.
From a completely selfish standpoint, I have to say that I was thrilled with the result! The acoustics in Jordan Hall are second to none....and we were able to hear every single note, every single nuance to the music...it was quite a treat.
The Youth Orchestra of the Americas, 75 young musicians from the western hemisphere...was just sensational. It was exciting to see young people in an orchestra....swinging, swaying, feeling the passion of the music. It really brought Dvorak's New World Symphony to life for me. The double bass players were a sight to behold!
Gabriela Montero, the pianist for Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto #2 was just amazing. She felt and expressed every imaginable nuance....one could think....just as intended by Rachmaninov himself. She then treated us to her musical talent in an encore....she asked the audience to name a couple of songs everyone knew, and she would improvise on them for us. So, we heard a brilliant classical approach to The Sound of Music...and to Take Me Out To The Ball Game! What fun!
I cannot think of a better teacher for these young musicians than Benjamin Zander. I believe his passion for music is contagious. He is one of those fine conductors that not only expresses himself so that the musicians know what he wants....when he conducts, he actually helps the audience to understand what's happening on the stage. It's a true gift.
OK. I realize I sound like I'm gushing a bit....I just wanted to share some of my impressions of the night with you....in hopes that perhaps you will come and join us for our next free concert....the Landmarks Orchestra at the Shell continues with another free concert next Wednesday night at 7 at the Hatch Shell...we hope to see you there!
Mark
Monday, July 27, 2009
Youth Orchestra of the Americas AND a different kind of Top 30 weekend!
Hi again!
It is really feeling like summer this week....with heat and humidity, no less! I'm glad that you're listening to WCRB this summer....and being so great about supporting our station and our events! Last Wednesday night, we had another huge turnout for the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell."
This Wednesday night should be extraordinary: Benjamin Zander will conduct the Youth Orchestra of the Americas. Seventy-five of the most talented young musicians from across the Western Hemisphere have come together this summer for an international tour of concerts and community outreach programs. And, this Wednesday night, we’ll be treated to the orchestra performing Rachmaninov’s Piano concerto #2 featuring the pianist Gabriela Montero, and Dvorak’s Symphony #4! Our free concert begins at 7 at the Hatch Shell. Bring a friend, a picnic, and be ready for a great evening. And remember to stop by and say hi.....I'll look forward to meeting you!
This coming weekend on WCRB, we're putting together a different kind of top 30 countdown.....we'll be counting down the 30 greatest Symphonies of all time! To be sure, any top 30 list of this sort is subjective in nature....one thing is certain, however....we have a weekend of incredible music planned! Our "Top 30 Symphonies" weekend begins Friday afternoon at 4. Oh...and by the way, we will be featuring the complete works....not just individual movements! Enjoy! :)
Thanks again for listening to WCRB....and for taking the time to read my blog today!
Mark
It is really feeling like summer this week....with heat and humidity, no less! I'm glad that you're listening to WCRB this summer....and being so great about supporting our station and our events! Last Wednesday night, we had another huge turnout for the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell."
This Wednesday night should be extraordinary: Benjamin Zander will conduct the Youth Orchestra of the Americas. Seventy-five of the most talented young musicians from across the Western Hemisphere have come together this summer for an international tour of concerts and community outreach programs. And, this Wednesday night, we’ll be treated to the orchestra performing Rachmaninov’s Piano concerto #2 featuring the pianist Gabriela Montero, and Dvorak’s Symphony #4! Our free concert begins at 7 at the Hatch Shell. Bring a friend, a picnic, and be ready for a great evening. And remember to stop by and say hi.....I'll look forward to meeting you!
This coming weekend on WCRB, we're putting together a different kind of top 30 countdown.....we'll be counting down the 30 greatest Symphonies of all time! To be sure, any top 30 list of this sort is subjective in nature....one thing is certain, however....we have a weekend of incredible music planned! Our "Top 30 Symphonies" weekend begins Friday afternoon at 4. Oh...and by the way, we will be featuring the complete works....not just individual movements! Enjoy! :)
Thanks again for listening to WCRB....and for taking the time to read my blog today!
Mark
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Another week, another free concert!
Hi there!
It's hard to believe over a week has gone by since I've posted a blog here....where is the summer going? We've finally had some nice weather, and it's so good to experience it.
Last week, a good 6,000 friends joined us at the Hatch Shell for the first "Landmarks Festival at the Shell" for the summer season. What a great night! The orchestra was in fine form as always, and the audience had a great time. So did I, for that matter! If you missed it, you can see the pictures that I took of the event on our facebook page...just click on the facebook button at wcrb.com to get there.
Tonight promises to be another great evening. Mother Nature is cooperating nicely...as I write this at 11AM, the skies are clearing, and the forecast indicates we should have spectacular weather for tonight's concert.
Tonight, Charles Annsbacher has prepared a great program for us: the Landmarks Orchestra will perform music by the "Viennese Masters." We'll hear the Haydn Cello Concerto in C ... featuring the cellist Jacqueline Choi, and the beautiful Brahms Symphony #1. The concert is free! It begins at 7. Parking is available at the Boston Common garage. Also, the DCR blocks off the right lane of Storrow Drive westbound about 20 minutes before the concert....you can park there. Or, do what I do....take the T to the Charles St./Mass General station on the red line....just a short walk from there to the shell!
I hope you can join us...and I hope you'll stop by the WCRB tent while you're there. That's where I'll be once my emcee duties are over!
See you tonight,
Mark
It's hard to believe over a week has gone by since I've posted a blog here....where is the summer going? We've finally had some nice weather, and it's so good to experience it.
Last week, a good 6,000 friends joined us at the Hatch Shell for the first "Landmarks Festival at the Shell" for the summer season. What a great night! The orchestra was in fine form as always, and the audience had a great time. So did I, for that matter! If you missed it, you can see the pictures that I took of the event on our facebook page...just click on the facebook button at wcrb.com to get there.
Tonight promises to be another great evening. Mother Nature is cooperating nicely...as I write this at 11AM, the skies are clearing, and the forecast indicates we should have spectacular weather for tonight's concert.
Tonight, Charles Annsbacher has prepared a great program for us: the Landmarks Orchestra will perform music by the "Viennese Masters." We'll hear the Haydn Cello Concerto in C ... featuring the cellist Jacqueline Choi, and the beautiful Brahms Symphony #1. The concert is free! It begins at 7. Parking is available at the Boston Common garage. Also, the DCR blocks off the right lane of Storrow Drive westbound about 20 minutes before the concert....you can park there. Or, do what I do....take the T to the Charles St./Mass General station on the red line....just a short walk from there to the shell!
I hope you can join us...and I hope you'll stop by the WCRB tent while you're there. That's where I'll be once my emcee duties are over!
See you tonight,
Mark
Monday, July 13, 2009
Wednesday night at the Hatch Shell
Hi there!
Finally, summer weather has come to Boston.....isn't it glorious? It's great to be able to listen to WCRB with the windows down in the car, and let the weather and the music lift my spirits!
This Wednesday night, we can experience soaring spirits together, as we enjoy live classical music at the Hatch Shell for the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell!" WCRB is proud to carry on the tradition of live music at the Hatch Shell every Wednesday night through the rest of the summer. The free concerts begin at 7! Bring a picnic, bring your friends, and enjoy a wonderful night with us.
Wednesday, Charles Annsbacher will lead the Landmarks Orchestra in "Italian Night"....with the music of Verdi, Mendelssohn, Scarlatti and others.
I'm honored to be the MC of the event once again this season....please plan to stop by the WCRB tent before the concert and at intermission. I'll be "hanging out" there, enjoying the music, and looking forward to meeting and perhaps speaking with you!
Hope to see you then.
Mark
Finally, summer weather has come to Boston.....isn't it glorious? It's great to be able to listen to WCRB with the windows down in the car, and let the weather and the music lift my spirits!
This Wednesday night, we can experience soaring spirits together, as we enjoy live classical music at the Hatch Shell for the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell!" WCRB is proud to carry on the tradition of live music at the Hatch Shell every Wednesday night through the rest of the summer. The free concerts begin at 7! Bring a picnic, bring your friends, and enjoy a wonderful night with us.
Wednesday, Charles Annsbacher will lead the Landmarks Orchestra in "Italian Night"....with the music of Verdi, Mendelssohn, Scarlatti and others.
I'm honored to be the MC of the event once again this season....please plan to stop by the WCRB tent before the concert and at intermission. I'll be "hanging out" there, enjoying the music, and looking forward to meeting and perhaps speaking with you!
Hope to see you then.
Mark
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
What a weekend!
Hi there,
There's so much going on for music lovers this weekend! As both Laura and Mark Calder are telling you in their blogs this week, we are thrilled to be part of Boston's 4th of July celebrations again this year at the Hatch Shell. We'll be basking in the ambience of the Esplanade starting at noon on Saturday, and we'll be featuring the great patriotic marches and anthems that are part of our American Heritage all day. Then, Laura and I get to host the big event: the Boston Pops concert with Keith Lockhart and special guest Neil Diamond.
If it weren't for the 4th, our big news would be the start of another season of great live BSO music from Tanglewood! Larry King will host the broadcasts once again this year....and we will have live concerts on WCRB Friday night at 8:30 and Sunday afternoon at 2:30!
It's been a tough year for many of us. We've all seen friends lose jobs, and many of us are finding it more difficult to make ends meet these days, but even so....America is still an awesome country! I think it's important to reflect on what we DO have on this holiday....and celebrate who we are as a country....collectively and individually!
I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!
As always,
Mark
There's so much going on for music lovers this weekend! As both Laura and Mark Calder are telling you in their blogs this week, we are thrilled to be part of Boston's 4th of July celebrations again this year at the Hatch Shell. We'll be basking in the ambience of the Esplanade starting at noon on Saturday, and we'll be featuring the great patriotic marches and anthems that are part of our American Heritage all day. Then, Laura and I get to host the big event: the Boston Pops concert with Keith Lockhart and special guest Neil Diamond.
If it weren't for the 4th, our big news would be the start of another season of great live BSO music from Tanglewood! Larry King will host the broadcasts once again this year....and we will have live concerts on WCRB Friday night at 8:30 and Sunday afternoon at 2:30!
It's been a tough year for many of us. We've all seen friends lose jobs, and many of us are finding it more difficult to make ends meet these days, but even so....America is still an awesome country! I think it's important to reflect on what we DO have on this holiday....and celebrate who we are as a country....collectively and individually!
I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!
As always,
Mark
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Summer?
Hi!
As I sit here at my office computer overlooking the trees lining the Charles River, watching the rain fall (again!), and muse that I should have worn a long-sleeve shirt here on the 23rd of June, the calendar nonetheless says it's summer! And, in Boston, that always means lots to enjoy.
Personally, it means that I won't be at Symphony Hall for the Pops or the BSO for the next couple of months. And, while I will miss being there live with the energy of those 2 great orchestras in that historic space, it also means that I will get to enjoy a few weekends off! :)
And, there will be plenty of live music to keep my attention over the course of the summer....beginning with the 4th of July celebration on the Esplanade! WCRB is honored to be part of the festivities again this year....we will be broadcasting from the Esplanade beginning at noon until the end of the fireworks spectacular. Keith Lockhart and the Pops always shine brilliantly at this event, and I can't wait to see it once again! It's hard to believe it's just over 2 weeks away!
This coming weekend....we're bringing back another "Classical Composer Marathon Weekend". I'll write more about what you can expect on that later this week.
In the meantime, your feedback is always welcome!
Praying for sun,
Mark
As I sit here at my office computer overlooking the trees lining the Charles River, watching the rain fall (again!), and muse that I should have worn a long-sleeve shirt here on the 23rd of June, the calendar nonetheless says it's summer! And, in Boston, that always means lots to enjoy.
Personally, it means that I won't be at Symphony Hall for the Pops or the BSO for the next couple of months. And, while I will miss being there live with the energy of those 2 great orchestras in that historic space, it also means that I will get to enjoy a few weekends off! :)
And, there will be plenty of live music to keep my attention over the course of the summer....beginning with the 4th of July celebration on the Esplanade! WCRB is honored to be part of the festivities again this year....we will be broadcasting from the Esplanade beginning at noon until the end of the fireworks spectacular. Keith Lockhart and the Pops always shine brilliantly at this event, and I can't wait to see it once again! It's hard to believe it's just over 2 weeks away!
This coming weekend....we're bringing back another "Classical Composer Marathon Weekend". I'll write more about what you can expect on that later this week.
In the meantime, your feedback is always welcome!
Praying for sun,
Mark
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The New Music Mix
Hi there,
Over the last couple of months, we've been asking you to take an online music survey. Many of you gave generously of your time, and rated many segments of pieces for us. Your results helped us to fashion our new playlist on WCRB! You told us of some pieces we haven't played in a long time that you want to hear again. You also told us of some pieces you'd rather not hear....and even about pieces that you love, but are a little weary of hearing frequently.
Thank you for your input! And now, we're happy to say that you can hear the fruits of your labor when you tune in to WCRB! We hope that you enjoy this new music mix.....and that it gives you hours and hours of pleasure.
And, you can be sure that we'll call on you to help again in the future. We really do want WCRB to be your first (and only!) choice for classical music on the radio!
Have a great day,
Mark
Over the last couple of months, we've been asking you to take an online music survey. Many of you gave generously of your time, and rated many segments of pieces for us. Your results helped us to fashion our new playlist on WCRB! You told us of some pieces we haven't played in a long time that you want to hear again. You also told us of some pieces you'd rather not hear....and even about pieces that you love, but are a little weary of hearing frequently.
Thank you for your input! And now, we're happy to say that you can hear the fruits of your labor when you tune in to WCRB! We hope that you enjoy this new music mix.....and that it gives you hours and hours of pleasure.
And, you can be sure that we'll call on you to help again in the future. We really do want WCRB to be your first (and only!) choice for classical music on the radio!
Have a great day,
Mark
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Spring Cleaning!
It's that time of year.....I remember my Mom used to always make a big deal out of spring cleaning....and the whole family was drafted into participation. We would moan at the thought, but there was a sense of family camaraderie once we got started....and a great sense of accomplishment when it was through, and we could see the fruits of our labor. We're actually doing the same thing here at WCRB this year! This week, we're all cleaning out our work areas. I'm marveling at how this parallels my family experience from years ago. I'm also amazed at just how much "stuff" I've accumulated over the last year in my work space! Much of it brings back good memories of things we've experienced in the last year: The Cartoon Festival, our Christmas programming, planning for our specialty weekends...and of course, all the great new music that's come to my attention. And, there's all the other stuff....the paperwork that should have been filed some time ago, and things that have been awaiting their home in that notorius "circular file!" I like what this is doing for us....we're taking pride in our personal space...just the same way we take pride in what comes out of the speakers at WCRB! And, there's one big advantage to spring cleaning at WCRB vs. at my homestead: here at WCRB, we have all this wonderful classical music permeating every corner of the building while we accomplish this task!
I hope you're doing well this week.
Mark
I hope you're doing well this week.
Mark
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The upcoming weekend on WCRB
Hi there,
It's wonderful to be enjoying June, isn't it? I love the weather and how green everything is this time of year. I also love listening to WCRB while I'm out wasting gas and enjoying the countryside. It helps me to forget that I've just spent $2.55 a gallon for the privelege!
This coming weekend, we're going to be resurrecting some amazing music and performances from WCRB's archives. As you know, WCRB has been on the air for over 60 years, and we have a pretty extensive collection of music. We thought we'd feature some of the great recordings from the archives. We're calling it the WCRB "Classic Performances Weekend."
I've found many recordings featuring legends from all over the planet, and we'll feature some of the world's greatest all weekend. It's noteworthy to point out how much the city of Boston has contributed to the classical community over the years, as well! Not only do we have the treasuries of Arthur Fiedler's performances, we've also unearthed some vintage performances from BSO leaders Charles Munch, Pierre Monteux, even Bruno Walter! And, we've found some wonderful Leonard Bernstein performances that we'll share with you, too.
I hope you will have the chance to listen...and re-discover these performances with us. It all starts at 4 in the afternoon on Friday.
Best,
Mark
It's wonderful to be enjoying June, isn't it? I love the weather and how green everything is this time of year. I also love listening to WCRB while I'm out wasting gas and enjoying the countryside. It helps me to forget that I've just spent $2.55 a gallon for the privelege!
This coming weekend, we're going to be resurrecting some amazing music and performances from WCRB's archives. As you know, WCRB has been on the air for over 60 years, and we have a pretty extensive collection of music. We thought we'd feature some of the great recordings from the archives. We're calling it the WCRB "Classic Performances Weekend."
I've found many recordings featuring legends from all over the planet, and we'll feature some of the world's greatest all weekend. It's noteworthy to point out how much the city of Boston has contributed to the classical community over the years, as well! Not only do we have the treasuries of Arthur Fiedler's performances, we've also unearthed some vintage performances from BSO leaders Charles Munch, Pierre Monteux, even Bruno Walter! And, we've found some wonderful Leonard Bernstein performances that we'll share with you, too.
I hope you will have the chance to listen...and re-discover these performances with us. It all starts at 4 in the afternoon on Friday.
Best,
Mark
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
This week on WCRB
Hi there,
I hope you had the change to enjoy the Top 100 Classical Pieces of All-Time on WCRB over this past Memorial Day weekend! It was wonderful to hear so many of these great works in their entirety on WCRB....including Beethoven's 9th....the piece you voted in at #1 once again. If you missed the Top 100, we will leave the list up at www.wcrb.com for a week or so....to give you the chance to see what you and your neighbors think are the greatest classical pieces. This list makes a great classical music primer....and, is a great resource if you're ever looking to introduce friends and family to classical music!
I understand there's lots of rain in the forecast for the week....but at these warmer temperatures, it's good to see things turn greener and grow! There's nothing like looking at the majesty of our surroundings this time of year while listening to classical music....hopefully provided by WCRB!
I understand there's lots of rain in the forecast for the week....but at these warmer temperatures, it's good to see things turn greener and grow! There's nothing like looking at the majesty of our surroundings this time of year while listening to classical music....hopefully provided by WCRB!
This coming Saturday night, I'm looking forward to being behind the microphone once again for another broadcast with the Boston Pops live from Symphony Hall. John Williams returns to the Pops this week, and the broadcast will feature some great music by our Pops, as the orchestra joins forces to raise awareness for the American Society of Transplantation. As always, we hope you can be with us at Symphony Hall. If not, the next best seat in the house is with us....at Boston's Classical Station, 99.5, WCRB.
Talk to you later this week,
Mark
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Thoughts of Summer!
We've had a few hints of summer already.....and I'm always ready to think warm thoughts! Summers are always a great time for us fans of classical music....because we can actually enjoy the music in the open-air often! There's nothing like listening to this great music in the pastoral settings of the great outdoors.
We've been busy working towards our summer plans here at WCRB. And, I know it's early, but I wanted to share how things are shaping up with you.
We're going to be part of Boston's huge 4th of July celebrations once again this year at the Hatch Shell. We have plans to be there, broadcasting live all day, finishing with a live broadcast of the nationally-televised Pops Concert, with Keith Lockhart conducting. Should be a great day! I'll have more details about that for you as we approach the summer.
Also, we are going to be part of Wednesday night concerts at the Hatch Shell again this year. It's the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell" featuring the Landmarks Orchestra, under the direction of Charles Ansbacher, and other great orchestras....every Wednesday night, all summer, starting July 15th with an "Intensely Italian" theme...the music of Verdi, Mendelssohn, Scarlatti, and others. The concerts are free, and begin at 7. Bring your friends, bring a picnic, and plan to celebrate the summer with WCRB!
OK, back to reality. Summer is still a few weeks away....and I should bask in the moment....spring is beautiful, after all, isn't it?
Thanks as always for making WCRB part of your day!
Mark E.
We've been busy working towards our summer plans here at WCRB. And, I know it's early, but I wanted to share how things are shaping up with you.
We're going to be part of Boston's huge 4th of July celebrations once again this year at the Hatch Shell. We have plans to be there, broadcasting live all day, finishing with a live broadcast of the nationally-televised Pops Concert, with Keith Lockhart conducting. Should be a great day! I'll have more details about that for you as we approach the summer.
Also, we are going to be part of Wednesday night concerts at the Hatch Shell again this year. It's the "Landmarks Festival at the Shell" featuring the Landmarks Orchestra, under the direction of Charles Ansbacher, and other great orchestras....every Wednesday night, all summer, starting July 15th with an "Intensely Italian" theme...the music of Verdi, Mendelssohn, Scarlatti, and others. The concerts are free, and begin at 7. Bring your friends, bring a picnic, and plan to celebrate the summer with WCRB!
OK, back to reality. Summer is still a few weeks away....and I should bask in the moment....spring is beautiful, after all, isn't it?
Thanks as always for making WCRB part of your day!
Mark E.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Mother's Day and Music
It was my Mom and Grandmother who really taught me an appreciation of music early in life! I remember my grandmother bought me a "Chord Organ" at the age of 5 for Christmas....and that started my love affair with music. I would not leave that organ alone....much to the dismay of the rest of my family! If your Mom is still around, I hope you get the chance to wish her the best on Mother's Day. You've probably heard about what we'll be doing here at WCRB over the weekend: We're spending the weekend putting the spotlight on classical music's "Leading Ladies!" We'll be featuring some of the greatest female performers in the business: conductors, soloists, and even composers! Wait til you hear it.....as I was putting the weekend together, I was amazed at the talent!
But, I think it's worth tipping the hat to the "silent" voice of women in classical music, as well. Think about this: female musicians make up a large portion of virtually every orchestra on the planet! So, the presence of women permeates every corner of classical music. This weekend, even the pieces we play that don't feature female soloists really do represent female musicians.....and that makes a huge statement about the impact of women in classical music.
Enjoy your weekend, and enjoy the music!
Mark
Mark
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
First ever blog!
Good morning!
What an amazing world we live in! Things change at such an incredible pace.....just a few months ago, many of us would have asked, "What's Facebook?!?" "What on earth is Twitter....and what do you mean, you've just sent a Tweet?!?" Having said that, I'm really excited that we at WCRB are entering into this bold new world.....because it's a great way for us to stay connected with each other!
Many of you know that in addition to doing the afternoon show at WCRB that I'm also the station's program director. I welcome your feedback! Send me your thoughts.....let's have conversation together about classical music, about what's important to you, and especially how I can help make your experience with WCRB better every time you tune in!
I'll be submitting posts here frequently....so check back often!
I'm doing the morning show for Laura Carlo the rest of this week.....I hope you'll have the chance to listen.
Thanks for checking out my first blog!
Mark
What an amazing world we live in! Things change at such an incredible pace.....just a few months ago, many of us would have asked, "What's Facebook?!?" "What on earth is Twitter....and what do you mean, you've just sent a Tweet?!?" Having said that, I'm really excited that we at WCRB are entering into this bold new world.....because it's a great way for us to stay connected with each other!
Many of you know that in addition to doing the afternoon show at WCRB that I'm also the station's program director. I welcome your feedback! Send me your thoughts.....let's have conversation together about classical music, about what's important to you, and especially how I can help make your experience with WCRB better every time you tune in!
I'll be submitting posts here frequently....so check back often!
I'm doing the morning show for Laura Carlo the rest of this week.....I hope you'll have the chance to listen.
Thanks for checking out my first blog!
Mark
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